Dog Bite Prevention Week

Dog owners should review the following helpful tips and always remain aware of their surroundings when interacting with dogs.

If you are bitten:

• If the dog's owner is present, obtain proof of rabies vaccination and get the owner's name and contact information
• Clean the wound with soap and water as soon as possible
• Consult your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room after office hours
• Contact the dog's veterinarian to check vaccination records

Protect your family:

• Be cautious around strange dogs and treat your dog with respect
• Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog
• Be alert for potentially dangerous situations
• Teach children, including toddlers, to be careful around pets
• Children should learn not to approach strange dogs or try petting dogs through fences
• Ask permission from dog's owners before petting another dog

In addition, the AVMA recommends the following behavior modifications and tips around household dogs:

• Carefully select your pet. Do not obtain a puppy on impulse
• Make sure the pet is socialized when young so it feels at ease around people and other animals
• Don't put your dog in a position where it feels threatened or teased
• Be calm. Always talk in a quiet voice and take "time-outs" when angry or frustrated
• Train your dog; basic commands help dogs understand what is expected of them
• Walk/exercise your dog regularly
• Avoid highly-excitable games like wrestling or tug-of-war
• Have your dog vaccinated against rabies
• Parasite control is important because it affects how your dog behaves
• Ensure fenced yards are secure
• Neuter your pet. According to the National Canine Research Foundation, 92% of fatal dog attacks involved male dogs, 94% of which were not neutered.

http://www.waff.com/story/25548040/dog-bite-prevention-week-begins

Dog Park Etiquette

Here are some basic guidelines when bringing your rambunctious canine to the dog park.

*If your dog is under 4 months of age do not bring them for safety and health reasons.

*Make sure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations so not to spread disease.

*If your dog seems uncomfortable take your pet somewhere else they might enjoy. Don't 
stress your dog out by forcing socialization especially if your pet has anxieties.

*Do not bring any female dog that is in heat. As for intact male dogs or even female dogs, that's a hit or miss. If you have a well-socialized, non-aggressive, submissive for the most part pup it should not be a problem as long as they do not show any behavior problems i.e. aggressive tendencies, constant mounting, etc.

*Supervise your dog at all times. This is not the time to ignore your pup and expect them to play nice or other dogs to play nice.

*Do not bring or use treats and toys from your home with other dogs around.

*Don't allow dogs to form loose packs or to bully other dogs.

*If a dog park is overcrowded consider going somewhere else. Even at a dog park, dogs need space.

*Avoid taking advice from fellow dog owners or giving advice yourself, whom are not dog professionals.

*Clean up after your dog please!

*Make sure your dog is not being bullied, learning bad manners or participating in rough play with other dogs. If so be willing to leave for your dog's safety.

Otherwise have fun!